Thinning the Perimiter

[ken cierp]

That should work just fine.

[Dave Bagwill]

Ok, thanks.

I also saw a short vid somewhere - Somagyi, I think - he was sanding right behind the bridge location, said it is one place that really responds well to a little material removal.

Ever heard of that or done it?

[ken cierp]

Hmmmmm? In what measurable way does that improve or change the instrument? The science behind thinning the perimeter is simple -- and explainable, "the entire sound-board/diaphragm" is more flexible and it can move more freely -- reacting the to a lighter touch and resulting string motion. More responsive.

[John Link]

I'd like to see the Somogyi video. In his book he says he will sand anywhere on the braced top, if he thinks that area is too stiff for maximum responsiveness. He adjusts until the stiffness is similar across the entire top, measured by his ear and his finger. Thus, I suppose that, if he found the area behind the bridge out of whack with the rest of the top, he might sand it. He uses a small sanding block for this operation and says he goes about it with abundant caution.